Brownlee brothers send powerful message on Yorkshire’s sporting prowess

For those back home in Yorkshire who have known them all their lives, their success also represents the fulfilment of the enormous potential both have shown since they were small boys.

The Brownlees began to showcase their athletic prowess at a very early age. Both pupils at Bradford Grammar School, they were introduced to triathlon by an uncle.

Alistair had already taken a number of junior titles in cross country running while his younger brother Jonathan was the British youth champion in both triathlon and duathlon in both 2006 and 2007.

In the past few years, their focus has been squarely on Olympic glory and yesterday they delivered in style, bringing yet more pride for the region.

Back home a crowd of more than 2,000 people flocked into Millennium Square in Leeds to watch them take gold and bronze respectively, cheering their every move.

Even heavy rain in the middle of the cycling section could not dampen spirits, with chants of “Brownlee, Brownlee” ringing out.

As Alistair drew near to the finish, grabbing a Union Flag from the crowd and wrapping it around his shoulders as he crossed the line to take the gold medal, the roar became deafening.

Among those in the square cheering them over the line was Louise Hanley, who has coached the Brownlees for more than eight years.

She told the Yorkshire Post: “I am very pleased to say the least. They deserved it and have put in a lot of hard work and have had a lot of good people around them who have helped to support them.

“They have done so much for the region. This sends such a powerful message about the area and the sport.”

Robert Bridges, who has trained with the brothers, said: “I think the fact that they are brothers in certain respects makes it slightly easier.

“It means they are both close to someone of their standard who they can train with all the time, whether it is cycling or running or even swimming together.”

Oliver Shannon, another triathlete to have trained with the pair, said: “They both have such natural talent but at the same time I do not think there is anyone who works harder than them in the world. They do 35 hours training a week.”

Back in their home village of Bramhope, Leeds, residents packed into the Fox & Hounds pub to watch the triumph on TV.

Landlady Beverley Broadley said: “The tap room was absolutely full to the rafters – what a fantastic atmosphere.

“The boys only live across the road and about four doors down.

“We want to see them the minute they get home, though – the drinks will be on the house as long as they come in with their medals.”

Anne Milne, who taught the Brownlees PE during their time as primary school pupils at Far Headingley’s Richmond House School said: “It’s amazing – I’m so pleased for both of them.

“It’s just reward for all the hard work they’ve put in over the years. What an inspiration they are for young people everywhere.”

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